Travel Guides > Rome, Italy

Rome Travel

Beautiful Rome holds the much-deserved reputation as one of the world's most incredible tourist destinations, teeming with ancient historical sites yet boasting a sort-of cozy romance that is achieved thanks to its spectacular fountains, little hole-in-the-wall cafes, and the native Romans who offer you a friendly smile no matter what the time of day.

The legend states that the city was built by two brothers, Romulus and Remus, on the seven hills that flank the Tiber River, once the lifeblood of Rome. Since that time, Rome has assumed many roles and the history that's contained within the city limits is staggering.

You'll need plenty of days to see and appreciate all that Rome has to offer and deciding where to start will be difficult. Many choose to embark on a walking tour of ancient Rome, with stops at all the important and awe-inspiring sites.

Here you’ll find some of the most photographed landmarks in the world, like the Colosseum. Completed in 80 AD and now just a shell, this architectural wonder was once the site of gladiatorial combat and could seat more than 50,000 spectators.

The Pantheon is the best-preserved of all ancient Roman buildings, being the only that is still intact. The Pantheon was acclaimed for its design, including its dome, and was the influence for many buildings to follow. Built in 27 B.C., the bronze doors at this landmark building each weigh 20 tons!

The Roman Forum was once the center of life for Romans. It's mostly in ruins now but the ruins themselves are indeed fascinating, especially if you choose a guided tour or pick up a map that tells you about what you're seeing. Nearby Palatine Hill is said to be where Rome's first citizens settled and was later home to such infamous characters as Caligula, Tiberius, and Nero. There's also a museum there that's full of ancient artifacts and Roman sculpture.

Many visitors will choose a trip to the Vatican and the accompanying museums there, as well as the magnificent Sistine Chapel. The Vatican Museums, a series of galleries and palaces, are home to the world's most extensive collection of precious artworks spanning the centuries. The chapel, with its famous Michelangelo-painted ceiling, is the centerpiece of the Vatican complex and is truly breathtaking. Taking a guided tour of the Sistine Chapel will help you learn more about the ceiling and the frescoes painted by other famous Italian artists.

For something a bit more lighthearted, remember that every visitor to Rome most stop to toss a coin in the beautiful Trevi Fountain, therefore ensuring your return to the Eternal City. This, however, isn't the only gorgeous fountain in Rome. There are dozens of them, many designed by Bernini.

If you are a lover of music, there are several must-dos when in Rome. Buy a ticket to the opera. You'll find that this is among the best opera in Europe, with performances of masterpieces by the greats, such as Verdi and Puccini. Also check out local churches for some equally magnificent concerts.

Of course, you'll want to try out the many sidewalk cafes and off-the-beaten-track restaurants in the city, many offering the best in local cuisine. Don't pass up the opportunity to enjoy gelato on a hot summer day or espresso during the Roman winters.

Also worth checking out: Venice, Italy